Abuja, Nigeria — May 16, 2025 | Springnewsng Media Limited

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for deeper economic and diplomatichttp://President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for deeper economic and diplomatic cooperation between Nigeria and Mali, emphasizing that West African nations are stronger and more prosperous when united.

During a meeting on Thursday at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu received the Letter of Credence from Oumar Coulibaly, the new Ambassador of the Republic of Mali. He reiterated Nigeria’s support for Mali’s democratic transition and urged greater bilateral engagement.

“We must continue to strengthen our bilateral relations,” Tinubu said. “Nigeria is committed to supporting Mali’s democratic goals. Consider Nigeria your second home — we are brothers in West Africa, and no country can thrive in isolation.”

The Nigerian leader addressed the broader geopolitical landscape, noting the importance of collaboration among countries in the region, especially in the face of growing challenges.

“The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) may have its position, but true strength lies in unity. Let’s build together for the good of our people,” he added.

Ambassador Coulibaly expressed deep gratitude to Nigeria for its leadership in Africa, particularly in peacekeeping and regional diplomacy.

“I bring fraternal greetings from President Assimi Goïta and the people of Mali,” Coulibaly said. “Nigeria is recognized as Africa’s powerhouse, and your role in promoting peace and economic stability is highly respected across the continent.”

President Tinubu also received letters of credence from envoys of five other nations: the Netherlands, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, and Switzerland — marking a day of high-level diplomatic engagement aimed at reinforcing Nigeria’s global ties.

With the Tanzanian envoy, Tinubu praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership and emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing economic and cultural cooperation. The Tanzanian High Commissioner acknowledged Nigerian investments in Tanzania, including those by the Dangote Group, UBA, GTB, and Sahara Energy.

“We see powerful collaboration between our countries in areas like business, sports, and Nollywood. This people-to-people relationship is the future,” he said.

In his conversation with Russian Ambassador Alexey Podelyshev, Tinubu discussed expanding ties in energy, education, and steel production.

“The Ajaokuta Steel Complex, built with Russian expertise, is a key national asset. We must reactivate it fully. We welcome more support from Russia in nuclear energy and technical training,” Tinubu stated.

Podelyshev reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to supporting Nigeria, particularly through educational exchanges and nuclear cooperation.

Swiss Ambassador Patrick Egloff assured Tinubu of Switzerland’s growing investments in Nigeria, including expansions by Nestlé and Lafarge. Tinubu pledged regulatory reforms to attract more foreign direct investment and remove barriers to business.

Also, the Bosnian Ambassador urged President Tinubu to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, noting improved bilateral relations and mutual opportunities for cooperation.